Earlier today, Governor Kitzhaber announced his appointment of Portland Housing Bureau Director Margaret Van Vliet to lead the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department.

Although this is a big loss for Portland, we know she'll do great things at OHCS.

Margaret has served as Director of PHB since July 2009. She will remain at the City through mid-September before beginning her new job in October.

Director Van Vliet's accomplishments at PHB are wide-ranging: from leading a successful merger of two agencies to form the new Portland Housing Bureau to completing Bud Clark Commons to breaking ground on veterans' housing at Block 49.

We're very sorry to see Margaret go, but look forward to working with her in her exciting new role.

Please join us in wishing her well.

Commissioner Fish statement

Director Van Vliet statement

"Margaret Van Vliet, director of Portland Housing Bureau, steps down for state job" - Brad Schmidt in the Oregonian

"Van Vliet leaves Portland for state post" - Andy Giegerich in the Portland Business Journal

"Breaking News: Portland Housing Bureau director to head state housing agency" - Street Roots Blog